‘Straight Outta Compton’ earns top spot at box office with $60.2 million opening

Universal’s “Straight Outta Compton” shot straight to the top of the box office with its $60.2 million dollar opening, easily outpacing the competition in the process.

The final totals surpassed Universal’s initial reports of a $56.1 million dollar opening en route to the fifth largest debut for the month of August, according to BoxOffice.com.

“Straight Outta Compton,” which cost only $29 million to produce, is well on its way to profitability off the strength of word-of-mouth and positive reviews from film critics. Most moviegoers and critics praise F. Gary Gray’s direction and the engaging performances from a cast of relative newcomers.

The film chronicles the rise of NWA, one of hip-hop’s most unapologetic, yet iconic and influential rap groups. The film’s depiction of racial tension and police brutality also proved timely, as the recent surge of police-related murders of unarmed civilians is currently a hot topic in public discourse.

“Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation,” the fifth installment of the popular action franchise starring Tom Cruise, settled into a distant second with a take of $17.19 million. After 17 days in theaters, the film has earned $138.32 million domestically to go along with its overseas haul of $235.3 million.

“The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” also premiered this weekend alongside “Straight Outta Compton,” but could only generate $13.42 million at the domestic box office. The spy comedy film, which was directed by Guy Ritchie and stars Henry Cavill, is a modern-day take on the popular 1960’s television series of the same name.

“Fantastic Four” and “The Gift” rounded out the top five with $8.17 million and $6.51 million, respectively.

Have you seen “Straight Outta Compton?” If so, let us know your opinion of the movie in the comment section.